Crusting
A primary or secondary skin lesion morphology consisting of dried serum, blood, or pus on the skin surface, described as a 'crust' in singular lesion documentation.
Full Definition
Crusting is the formation of a hardened surface layer on skin resulting from the desiccation of exudate—serous, haemorrhagic, or purulent—overlying a primary lesion such as a vesicle, bulla, pustule, or erosion. As a morphological descriptor, it is used in lesion documentation to convey the stage of disease evolution. The term 'crust' should be used for an individual lesion while 'crusting' refers to the general phenomenon. Honey-colored crusting is a classic descriptor for impetigo contagiosa and is a specific phrase editors should ensure is not paraphrased away. Haemorrhagic crusting indicates blood-derived exudate and carries different diagnostic significance.
Usage
Usage note: The phrase 'honey-colored crusting' is a clinically significant descriptor for impetigo and should not be altered during editing.
In Context
- "Honey-colored crusting over erythematous patches on the face is the hallmark of impetigo contagiosa." — Pediatric dermatology teaching material
- "Haemorrhagic crusting was noted overlying several erosions on the lower limbs." — Inpatient wound assessment